There are limits on the weight of commercial vehicles, particularly when they cross state lines. These limitations exist for a reason: Overloaded trucks are harder to control, and a trucker’s driving error is more likely to result in a devastating crash.
When an overloaded/overweight truck accident in Prairieville resulted in your injuries, you may have a compensation case. Proving negligence in these situations can be challenging, especially without assistance. Let a dedicated truck accident attorney from Tomeny | Best help you maximize your recovery.
When Is a Truck Overweight?
Unlike trucks, most passenger cars never come close to reaching the size where they may be regulated. These limitations apply exclusively to large commercial vehicles. Federal law provides a maximum weight of 20,000 pounds for trucks with a single axle. The limit increases to 34,000 pounds for tandem-axel vehicles. Violation of these rules, which are based on how far a truck is over the limit, results in fines.
When trucks weigh too much, they become a significant hazard for other motorists. While commercial vehicles are designed to handle a substantial load, carrying more than they are designed increases the risk of a crash. Overloaded trailers can become top-heavy, which increases the risk of an accident in Prairieville. This amount of weight also makes a truck much more difficult to control. They need extensive space to come to a complete halt, making it challenging to avoid dangerous road hazards.
Overloaded trucks are at significant risk of causing an accident and typically cause far more damage. The amount of force generated typically leads to catastrophic injuries for any drivers in their path.
Understanding the Deadline for Filing a Lawsuit
A Prairieville motorist who has been injured in an overloaded/overweight truck accident has the right to seek monetary damages, but that opportunity will not last forever. The statute of limitations or the “prescription period” is a legal deadline for every personal injury lawsuit. If an accident happened after July 1, 2024, a person has two years to file a lawsuit and pursue legal action from the date of their accident. If it happened before this time, there is only one year to bring a claim to pursue compensation.
Talk to a Prairieville Attorney About Pursuing a Claim for an Overloaded or Overweight Truck Accident Today
When you or a loved one were injured in an overloaded/overweight truck accident in Prairieville, it is crucial to understand that you have options available to you as these collisions have the potential to cause serious, debilitating injuries. A civil suit may be necessary to obtain justice.
Call the diligent legal team at Tomeny | Best today to discuss your options for pursuing a claim during a free consultation.